2021 Batar

A bright silver/straw color, the 2021 Batar is a baby at this stage, although the estate has significantly dialed back the new oak over the evolution of their releases. It opens to aromas of parmesan rind, fresh almonds, fennel, white flowers, melon rind, and white peach. Full bodied while retaining good tension and a high-quality, rounded creaminess, it has a long, long finish, with a hint of saline and key lime oils. I love where this wine has taken things. It has a light smokiness that starts to lift as it opens in the glass. This is going to continue to improve with proper cellaring and drink 2025-2040. Translating to “beautiful oak,” Querciabella has 72 hectares of vines in Greve, Radda, and Gaiole. They are certified organic and practice vegan viticulture and winemaking. Winemaker Manfred Ing, of South African descent, has been making remarkable strides forward in recent years, with the wines showing an increasing level of refinement and balance while retaining outstanding purity and depth. They have also begun utilizing fruit from the village of Lamole, which he feels has added freshness and vibrancy to the wines.